Marking its 150th birthday, Norwich High School for Girls celebrated its rich history by also initiating a “150 Acts of Service” project. What started as an ambitious goal to give back to the community for this milestone quickly grew, with the combined efforts of the Prep and Senior Schools culminating in an impressive 310 acts of service during the 2024-25 academic year.

The project, launched last October, saw students, staff and parents across both the Prep and Senior Schools dedicate their time, energy and resources to support a myriad of charities and organisations. The spirit of giving quickly became infectious, particularly within the Prep School, where initial efforts steadily gained momentum. “We started off slowly,” Susan Roberts, Head of Norwich High Prep School and Nursery noted, “but soon acts of service were being added every week.” The enthusiasm was palpable, with almost every girl in the Prep School actively participating in the various projects.

The success of the Prep School’s endeavour was significantly bolstered by the incredible support of the parent community. “We are indebted to some parents who went over and above to arrange things to support us reaching 150,” Susan expressed, highlighting the vital role of collaboration in achieving such a remarkable feat.

The impact of these collective efforts is truly inspiring. Through a diverse range of activities, the Norwich High Prep School and Nursery community:

• Raised nearly £25,000 for approximately 100 different charities and organisations, providing crucial financial support to causes both local and global.
• Made 30 donations to charity shops and foodbanks, directly benefiting those in need and promoting sustainable practices.
• Conducted 23 litter picking sessions, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship.
• Donated several feet of hair! This unique act of service will undoubtedly bring comfort and confidence to individuals experiencing hair loss.

While the Prep School’s achievements are clearly quantifiable, the Senior School’s contributions were equally varied and impactful.

Examples from the Senior School’s extensive list of acts of service include:

• Students volunteering at local care homes, entertaining residents with drama and music productions, and providing companionship.
• Charity events and donations supporting various causes, including GOSH, Macmillan, Norwich Foodbank, Nelson’s Journey, and Children in Need, with total donations raised exceeding £12,000.
• Representing Norwich High at the national GDST EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) Forum.
• Supporting St John’s Ambulance in delivering first aid training to school nurses.
• Volunteering as a student council leader, academic lead or tour guide for prospective families.
• Students offering peer tutoring and support to younger pupils, demonstrating a commitment to their school community.
• Running lunchtime clubs in local primary schools.
• Volunteering at a tennis club for young children to help them improve their skills.

The “150 Acts of Service” initiative was more than just a fundraising drive or a series of volunteer efforts; it was a testament to the core values of Norwich High School for Girls GDST. As outlined at the project’s launch, the initiative aimed to foster a deeper understanding of community responsibility and the power of collective action.

The school extends its gratitude to every individual who participated in the project. The completion of 160 acts of service in the Prep School, alongside 150 contributions from the Senior School, culminating in a grand total of 310 acts of service, stands as a powerful legacy of Norwich High School’s 150th year. It is a celebration not just of longevity, but of the enduring spirit of compassion and service that defines the Norwich High School for Girls community.